Executive Summary

The 1996 apparent market for windows and doors was estimated to be worth £1.27bn at manufacturers' selling prices (msp), a small decrease over the previous year. At installation prices, this figure is estimated to translate to £3.1bn. While there was the beginning of a rise in construction activity in 1996, as well as the emergence of positive factors in the refurbishment sector, rationalisation within the industry and severe price competition restricted an increase in value.

In this Key Note report, the windows and doors industry is analysed by material, these being:

• unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U)
• wood
• aluminium
• steel.

In addition, international trade forms an important part of the windows and doors market with the UK showing an overall trade deficit.

The improvement in general economic factors continued towards the end of 1996 and well into 1997, with public sector projects, National Lottery cash, and windfalls all contributing to more prosperous times for the window and door manufacturers. However, four successive monthly increases in mortgage rates have dampened these prospects somewhat. Despite this, the construction industry in the South East and other areas is now very active, to the extent that there are increasing shortages of skilled labour and rises in construction costs.

The estimated value of the 1997 apparent market at msp is £1.3bn, a 2% increase over 1996. Due to the construction initiatives now under way, this market is predicted to grow by 4.7% in 1998 and 4.8% in 1999. By the year 2000, the present cycle of activity could begin to decline, with a growth of 4.1% in the year 2001. However, it must be stressed that any estimates of trends in the construction industry and consumer expenditure are always subject to unforeseen changes, and these growth predictions must be reviewed annually.

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